Japan’s Unique Kana Calligraphy, Taught by a Prominent Kyoto Calligraphy Family with Four Generations of History

The Hibinos: A Family of Calligraphers Four Generations and Counting

The kana writing system encompasses two phonetic syllabaries unique to Japan – called hiragana and katakana – composed of characters developed from highly abbreviated kanji. Its calligraphic form arose from the pursuit of beauty by accentuating the curves of hiragana. 

Kana calligraphy undulating in rich cascades down the page

Kyoto is the birthplace of kana calligraphy, and was also the adopted home of Goho Hibino (1901-1985), the first generation calligrapher of the Hibino family. Successive generations – Koho (1928-2023) and Hakuho (b. 1960) – have carried on the tradition, earning accolades and acclaim. Today, fourth generation calligrapher Yuka Hibino operates the family gallery.

The Kiyora Gallery of Calligraphy is located along Karasuma Street, which connects the northern and southern regions of central Kyoto

The venue for this experience is the Kiyora Gallery of Calligraphy, located in front of the Kyoto Gosho, or Imperial Palace – a cultural center in its own right during the Heian period (794-1185), during which kana calligraphy emerged. The gallery building is a unique polygonal structure designed by a miyadaiku, or shrine and temple carpenter. It primarily displays the work of Goho, Koho, and Hakuho, and here you can get intimately in touch with the history and techniques of the art.

An Experience of over 12 Centuries of Calligraphy

The kana writing system took root during the Heian period, roughly 12 centuries ago, as abbreviated forms of kanji characters originally introduced from China. It was further popularized by its use in waka, a form of traditional poetic verse structured around lines of five and seven syllables from which the highly shortened haiku form later emerged. Learn these origins and more in the experience.

Yuka Hibino, 4th Generation of the Hibino calligraphy family, who curates the gallery and produces experiential courses

The displays adorning the gallery walls are periodically changed, exhibiting a wide variety of pieces by Goho and Koho Hibino. Precious works such as calligraphy exercises by Goho’s disciples bearing his corrections on them, as well as brushes he actually used, are also sometimes displayed in special exhibitions. By tracing the paths of these masters, you can gain a deeper understanding of the art.

Put Brush to Paper and Draw Kana, Following the Fragrance of the Ink

Calligraphy begins by grinding liquid ink from a special original inkstick, gold emblazoned with the word otori – phoenix. Take up a fine brush whose design was overseen by Hakuho especially to write kana calligraphy.

Grinding the ink elicits a unique fragrance and a savory anticipation

Your instructor will give you attentive instruction in how to hold the brush and tips on how to use it effectively, such as the best upright angle and circular motion of the arm to draw curves. Begin practicing line elements before moving on to copying full characters.

Receive careful instruction on how to hold and use the brush as you practice

Inscribe Your Choice of Words on a Fan to Produce a Unique Work of Calligraphic Art

In this Wabunka experience, choose from a variety of Kyoto-themed words such as miyako (capital) and matsuri (festival). These card samples also explain the meaning of each word and how to read them, so you can inscribe your fan with exactly the one you like most.

Samples written by Hakuho Hibino, the family’s third generation calligrapher

The ornamental chiyogami paper used to decorate your fan comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns, so you can choose your favorite two to create the combination that speaks to you. Moreover, black ink is not the only option for your fine brush calligraphy – choose from silver and gold as well. Seal your finished work with the gallery’s own “Kiyora” stamp.

Free collages of chiyogami paper make for unique ornamental fans

Additionally, take home colored paper calligraphy written by your instructor as a keepsake. Word choices include waka poems introduced during the lecture, Kyoto-themed terms, and participant names.

Taking home souvenir calligraphy from a master is one unique perk of this Wabunka plan

A Brush with the Visual Beauty of the Japanese Language through Kana Calligraphy

Rare is a calligraphic family that upholds the art for four successive generations like Hibino has. Says Yuka: “Maintaining the traditions of kana calligraphy is important to me. Poetic verse has been a central way our culture expressed depths of feeling, and kana calligraphy was an essential component of that. I want to spread awareness and enjoyment of this artistic reflection of the Japanese spirit.”

A chance to experience the beauty of Japan’s unique kana writing system through calligraphy

An extraordinary opportunity to center yourself and experience the art of calligraphy in a gallery resplendent with both beauty and pedigreed history. Come and experience the marvels it has cultivated over the generations.